Secrets in the Shadows: Urban Objects Transformed with Sidewalk Paint

You might not even notice there’s anything unusual about these
shadows until you’re right up on them, wondering why in the
world a mailbox looks like a grinning monster, fearing that
somebody slipped you a psychedelic drug. There’s nothing wrong
with your perception of the world. You’re just lucky enough to
spot one of Damon Belanger’s
shadow art creations in the wild, painted on urban surfaces
all over Redwood City, California. Depending on the time of
day, the shadows can be surprisingly convincing, catching
passersby off guard.

A public bench becomes a cat, a bicycle has a mind of its own
and a cartoon train scoots along the top of a fence. A fire
hydrant sprouts a maze, and smiling flowers grow from the bases
of bike racks. The work was created in partnership with the
Redwood City Improvement Association, and though it may be
simple, it’s sweet, and a fun way to liven up public spaces.
You can see more on Belanger’s
Instagram.

“The shadow art has allowed me to bring out a more whimsical
side of my art and allows me to play with shadows,” Belanger
told the Daily
Journal. “The shadows give regular mundane objects a lively
spirit so people can have a little fun in their everyday
lives.”